Tips To Keep in Mind While Driving on a Mountain

Driving around on mountainous terrain is adventurous but also pretty dangerous. However, following just a few basic rules can ensure safety for you and your loved ones. These simple tricks will help you take in the magnificent views around you and enjoy breathing clean air while also being in the clear from any danger. Let us take you through the 6 most useful tips to keep in mind while driving on a mountain.

Stick to your lane

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The sharp bends and curves on mountainous roads make it impossible to spot vehicles that are driving in your direction from the opposite side. In such situations, it is imperative that you don't leave your lane, so as to avoid the risk of collisions with them. Also, remember to drive at a speed that will let you control your vehicle in case someone from the opposite direction suddenly turns up in your lane.

Use your horn and headlamps

Before taking blind turns, honk the horn for a bit to alert anyone on the other side to your presence. At night, you can replace this honking with the flashing of your headlamps which will alert the driver of the oncoming car to the presence of a vehicle on the opposite side approaching the same turn.

Check fuel and tyres

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Before you head out on your mountainous journey, make sure to fill your petrol/diesel tank (or recharge the battery of your electric car) because finding yourself stranded on a mountain with no fuel station in sight is something nobody wants to go through. Also, make it a point to inflate your tyres to the right pressure and have a spare one ready in case of a blowout.

Judicious braking

Following braking discipline is necessary not only to drive carefully on mountains but also to take proper care of your brakes. Braking excessively on downhill slopes can lead to wear of the brakes. It's hence advised to use quick, light taps on the pedal. This will be easier if you keep an eye out for road signs that warn you about approaching steep or hairpin turns.

Avoid overtaking

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As we said, mountainous roads are filled with blind turns and these roads also tend to be pretty narrow. Overtaking in such conditions can be extremely dangerous. It's best advised to go with the speed of the vehicle in front of you. If it's going too slow, you can always honk at them to ask for a pass-through.

Check the temperature gauge

We aren't really accustomed to checking the temperature gauge in the instrument cluster. While driving uphill, your car's engine can get pushed to the limit causing more amount of heat to be generated than the coolant can handle. Hence, it´s always recommended to keep glancing at the temperature gauge when you're driving on mountainous terrain.

Apart from all these tips, there are a few small ones to remember as well. Like having a first aid kit handy and trying to get your vehicle serviced before heading out on that mountain trip. Follow these few rules and you're good to go.